Welcome to our Newest Attorney!

Welcome to Brian Downey!


Brian joins the Estate Planning team. A native of Fort Wayne, he began his career as a corporate tax attorney before moving into private practice in 2008. He has been practicing law in Florida for the past several years. We welcome Brian to the Barrett family!


Welcome to our Newest Staff Members!

A big Barrett welcome to three new staff members- pictured above from left to right- Ande Chapman (pictured with Jaxon), Kimberly Skeens and Katie Stronczek. Ande is the new paralegal for the estate planning team, Katie is the paralegal for Ben Ice and Kevin Fitzharris, and Kimberly is the legal assistant to Trisha Paul and Brian Downey. We welcome all three of them to the Barrett family!

Barrett Spotlight

Maria A. Mirande

Date started at Barrett: Officially in August 2022 but I was a summer associate in 2021

 

What is a cause that you are passionate about? Animal shelters! I used to volunteer a local shelter during college and law school and I adopted both of my cats from shelters.

 

What three words do you think your best friend would use to describe you? Compassionate, Type A, and thoughtful

 

What is the best advice you were ever given in your career as an attorney?

 “Don’t waste time trying to be perfect, just be confident”

 

What is the best trip you’ve ever been on? Ashville, North Carolina (I got engaged on that trip!) and my college trip to Ireland

 

What does a perfect weekend look like to you? Lots of time in bed either reading or watching TV, at least one trip to brunch, and a nice dinner with a good wine. 

Susan L. Henschen

Date started at Barrett: April 17, 1989 – 34 years ago.

 

What is a cause that you are passionate about? Kindness to all.

 

What is something surprising that no one may know about you? I used to slalom waterski and spent a large portion of my younger years in the water on swim teams and at Jimmerson Lake.

 

If you could pick any superpower, what would it be and why? Time manipulation. The possibilities are endless. Some days just need more time and others need to pass quickly!

 

What three words do you think your best friend would use to describe you? Sweet, kind, smart

 

What do you like most about working at Barrett? The relationships I have made and maintained over the 34 years are very special. I also like the amount of independence my job has. It gives me pleasure to help the families who are grieving a loss and guide them through the estate and/or trust administration.

 

Do you have any creative outlets, interests, or hobbies? I used to cross stitch, but now I can’t see well enough. Taught myself how to knit and crochet but haven’t finished a project. Maybe when I retire, I can complete something!

 

What are your favorite local spots to visit? County Heritage Winery and Don Chavas restaurant.

 

What is your favorite movie and movie genre? I can’t think of a favorite, but I like love stories, comedy, and action.

 

What is your favorite meal? Any meal made by someone else!


Susan is pictured above with her granddaughter, Ellie Grace Muzzillo.

Susan with her son, Erik Henschen.

Susan with her daughter, Holly Muzzillo.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Around Town

Making Dinner at Hope's Harbor

The summer clerks and associates prepared a dinner at Hope's Harbor, a hospitality home for families with children receiving medical care at a local hospital. The House greatly appreciated the dinner, especially the brownies! They were gone within a day!

Barrett McNagny Baseball Team

Congratulations to the Barrett McNagny baseball team with coach Mark Bains for winning the most games in their league this season. Unfortunately, they were edged out in the championship game, but congratulations on a fantastic season!

Visit by Whip and Chill


Whip and Chill stopped by the firm on July 13th in celebration of National Ice Cream Day! Treats were had by one and all! Mark your calendars- Kona Ice will be at the firm in August!

Summer Clerks Enjoy an evening at a TinCaps Game


The summer clerks enjoyed an evening at Parkview Field watching a TinCaps game.

Separated at Birth

Prince William

Ben Ice

Blake Lively

Katie Selby

popsicle_ice.jpg

Upcoming Events


August 17, 2023: Attorney Golf Outing and Staff Luncheon on the 6th floor


August 31, 2023: Kona Ice in the Parking Lot